Several people have been killed and others injured following fresh attacks by suspected armed militia on communities in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State.
Residents said the violence began three days ago in Didango village when gunmen reportedly ambushed a group of youths returning home after watching an English Premier League match at a viewing centre. Two young men were said to have been killed during the attack.
According to local sources, the violence later spread to Gaita, Loba, and Lewatha villages in what residents described as coordinated assaults. The attacks forced many people to flee their homes and seek safety in nearby bushes.
A resident of Mayo-Gauro village, Mr. Dauda Bulus, told reporters that the attacks were allegedly carried out by armed militia from a neighbouring community. He said the affected villages had suffered similar attacks repeatedly over the years. Another resident of Didango, who spoke on condition of anonymity, claimed that several farmers were ambushed while returning from their farms, leaving many people injured.
Sources further disclosed that the attackers later targeted other communities, causing additional casualties. However, an attempted attack on Gurum village near the Kodai area on Tuesday night was reportedly repelled by local vigilante groups and community members who have increased security patrols in response to the recurring violence.
Speaking on the situation, Mr. Abubakar Adamu, a resident of the area, expressed concern that the continued attacks were threatening peace and stability in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area. He noted that despite several peace meetings and dialogue efforts among the affected communities, the violence had continued. According to him, the attacks often occur during farming and harvest seasons, disrupting agricultural activities that serve as the main source of livelihood for many residents.
Confirming the incident, the Chairperson of Karim-Lamido Local Government Council, Mrs. Virginia Baba Bambur, said the attacks had taken place but noted that calm had returned to the affected communities. She added that more details would be made available after receiving comprehensive reports from security personnel and other officials on the ground.